13-year-old Boko Haram escapee rescued in Borno, security forces launch search for others

By: Zagazola Makama

A 13-year-old boy abducted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists has been rescued by security operatives in Borno, while efforts are underway to locate other victims taken during the same attack.

The boy, identified as Hamadu, was discovered with a deep cut on his left leg in a farmland at Koshebe area of Mafa Local Government Area. He had reportedly escaped from captivity after falling off a motorcycle used by the terrorists to transport abductees from Nganzai LGA to an unknown location.

Zagazola learnt that following the report made by a good Samaritan, a patrol team led by the Officer-in-Charge of Kaleri Outpost, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local hunters, was immediately dispatched to the scene.

The victim was rescued, photographed as part of evidence documentation, and rushed to the State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri where he was admitted and is currently responding to treatment.

His statement has been recorded, while the Divisional Police Officer in Nganzai has contacted his family.

Meanwhile, a coordinated search-and-rescue operation is ongoing in the area, involving troops of Operation Hadin Kai, police tactical teams, CJTF, and hunters, to trace and rescue the remaining victims believed to have been abducted during the same incident.

13-year-old Boko Haram escapee rescued in Borno, security forces launch search for others

Bandits kill community guard, seize rifle in Zamfara farm attack

By: Zagazola Makama

Armed bandits have killed a member of the Community Protection Guard (CPG) and carted away his rifle during an attack on farmers in Yar Katsina village, Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the incident, which occurred around 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, saw the assailants armed and in large numbers storming farmlands in the Kekun Waje district and opening fire on farmers engaged in early morning cultivation.

Sources said the attackers warned that no farming activity would be allowed in the area this season.

In the ensuing chaos, a 20-year-old CPG operative, Jamilu Sani, was shot dead while attempting to defend the farmers. His pump-action rifle was taken away by the assailants as they fled.

Security personnel and local vigilantes were later seen combing the area in search of the attackers, who reportedly escaped into nearby forests.

Bandits kill community guard, seize rifle in Zamfara farm attack

Operation Safe Haven warns vigilantes against unauthorized missions in Plateau, says 8 vigilantes lost their lives not 70

By: Zagazola Makama

The Headquarters of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has cautioned vigilante groups in Plateau State against embarking on unauthorized security operations without coordinating with recognized security agencies.

The warning followed a recent incident in which eight vigilantes were confirmed killed and several others declared missing after an ambush by armed bandits in Odare Forest, Kanam Local Government Area of the state.

The Army stated this in a statement on Wednesday in Jos, OPSH said the vigilantes, mobilised from Kanam LGA, undertook the mission without notifying the military or seeking approval from OPSH.

The group had halted temporarily in Kukawa community for administrative arrangements when they reportedly clashed with residents, looted provision shops, and seized more than 20 motorcycles under unclear circumstances.

“While advancing towards Odare Forest, the vigilantes were ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in the death of eight members. Others remain unaccounted for,” the statement said.

OPSH disclosed that troops from Sector 2 deployed in Wase have since launched search and rescue operations to recover the missing individuals.

The security outfit, which operates under the Nigerian military, warned that unauthorized missions not only endanger the lives of vigilantes but also pose significant threats to civilians and undermine coordinated counter-terrorism efforts.

“While we appreciate the zeal of community-based groups in safeguarding their areas, all security efforts must be coordinated with OPSH and other statutory forces to avoid unintended consequences,” it added.

The statement reiterated OPSH’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability across Plateau and urged residents to support the military by providing actionable intelligence and promptly reporting suspicious activities.

Operation Safe Haven warns vigilantes against unauthorized missions in Plateau, says 8 vigilantes lost their lives not 70